A RESTAURANT near Malmesbury is celebrating after being awarded a prestigious Michelin star in the latest guide to the country's best restaurants.

Sue Williams, general manager of The Dining Room at Whatley Manor in Easton Grey, has praised executive chef Niall Keating for being the driving force in guiding the restaurant to culinary glory in less than a year of joining.

At just 26-years-old, Niall made a name for himself at several Michelin starred restaurants including Benu in San Francisco, Sat Bains in Nottingham and Kong Hans Kaelder in Copenhagen.

He joined Whatley Manor at the beginning of the year and launched his own style of tasting menus based around modern British food that draws on his international experience.

Niall said: "I am incredibly proud of my team’s achievements in such a short space of time.

"Winning a Michelin star in the 2018 guide and continuing Whatley Manor's relationship with the most respected industry guide in the world, is testament to the non-stop focus, hard work and determination we instilled from day one.”

Sue Williams said: "We are thrilled that the strong food story continues on. When Niall and I entered into conversations about working together, his exact words were – I will not let you down. He has more than fulfilled his side of the bargain in less than a year. He is an extremely talented and original culinary voice.”

For more information go to whatleymanor.com